Nile

Nile have developed quite a name for themselves, consistently releasing well-executed, Egyptian-themed technical death metal records. Continuing to add to their legacy, the South Carolina trio, now featuring Todd Ellis on bass, return with their seventh studio album, At the Gate of Sethu, which carries on the band's iconic sound, one that features their Middle Eastern flourishes. Some unique instruments are heard right from the start with bewitching opener "Enduring the Eternal Molestation of Flame," which quickly switches to a rapid, violent attack of heavy riffs. The main difference between At the Gate of Sethu and Nile's previous releases is the use of different vocal styles, which is much less subtle here than on Those Whom the Gods Detest, and takes some repeat listens to get used to. "The Fiends Who Come to Steal the Magick of the Deceased" and "When My Wrath is Done" feature the band's classic, fierce aggression, before the Middle Eastern influences return with full force on the uneasy "Slaves of Xul." Mastermind Karl Sanders has outdone himself with the variety of intricately written tracks, and working with producer Neil Kernon once again has given At the Gate of Sethu an ultra-clean sound, making it yet another epic work in Nile's highly revered canon.